Civ 5

[Dystopia]

I always start in the ancient era, I've tried starting in later eras but then it's not the kinda game I like. I enjoy going through the different eras and watching my civ progress. As for what civ to use, honestly I don't think it makes that much difference. Maybe on higher difficulty levels if you want to strategise, but on the mid to lower settings I'd just go with whatever civ you fancy.

I think it's cool they put the portuguese on the game, but I think I'll play with the Russians since according to several guides they are good for conquering and expansion

Not sure if you mean domination, but I always leave all the conditions on. This isn't a game like Total War or Age of Empires really, it's not all about pure domination (I mean, it can be if you really want to play that way, I just think you'd be missing out on the rest of the game. It also gives other civs more of a chance to win, which I think is a good thing). I like going for the different victory conditions as it can make your game play out in different ways.

I understand, I'll just stick to domination for now since I don't know how to play the game, it's just a way to make it easier.